A DEDICATED man organised a fundraising event for Sport Relief.

Sam Sollars, 26, who lives in a property run by Homes Caring For Autism, raised £131.17 for the charity at the event held at the Ritz Social Club in Burnham-on-Sea.

Sam Sollars was helped by his support worker to organise the event, which featured a professional DJ, homemade cakes and soft drinks.

Richard Smith, managing director of Homes Caring for Autism, which is based in Somerset, said: “We are very proud of Sam, who is a keen sports fan, and supports Chelsea and Manchester United football clubs.

“This was something he decided he wanted to do after getting involved with sponsored activities on Red Nose Day for Comic Relief.

“He came with his support worker to see myself and area manager, Claire Gigg, at head office, and explained that he wanted to hold an event of his own in aid of Sport Relief.

"When we agreed, he and his support worker drew up a plan for an event at The Ritz, which he knows from previous Christmas and birthday parties we have held there.”

Sam lives in his own flat in a residential care home in Taunton run by Homes Caring for Autism, after previously living in a secure hospital environment.

Richard Smith added: “We have been delighted to see how Sam has blossomed since he moved into his flat with us six years ago, and his decision to hold his own fundraising event for charity is a reflection of his growing confidence and self-esteem.

“All those that know Sam are very proud of him and his achievements, as are his parents, brothers and sister.”

Homes Caring for Autism was founded in 2004 by Richard Smith, and now employs approximately 300 people, and staff have received a number of awards for their work.

Richard himself has received two outstanding contribution’ awards.

One was in the 2015 national LaingBuisson Awards, widely regarded as the Oscars of the care industry, and the other in the 2015 Great British Care Awards (GBCAs) for the South West.